My First Big Solo Wedding: Capturing Love at Wilder Mansion, Elmhurst
Every photographer remembers their first big solo wedding—the one that pushes them out of their comfort zone, challenges their skills, and solidifies their passion. For me, that wedding took place at Wilder Mansion in Elmhurst, a stunning venue that set the stage for one of the most exciting (and nerve-wracking) days of my career.
The Nerves Were Real
Up until this point, I had photographed plenty of weddings, but always with a team or second-shooting for another photographer. This time, it was all on me—from capturing the details and emotions to keeping the timeline running smoothly. I won’t lie—I was nervous. Would I get all the right shots? Would I handle the unexpected challenges that inevitably come with weddings?
But as soon as I arrived at Wilder Mansion and saw the breathtaking venue, I knew this was going to be an incredible experience.
The Beauty of Wilder Mansion
Wilder Mansion is a dream wedding venue. The elegant historic architecture, bright and airy interiors, and beautifully landscaped gardens provide endless opportunities for stunning photos. The natural light streaming through the tall windows made every shot feel warm and timeless.
The couple’s decor complemented the space perfectly—romantic florals, vintage-inspired details, and soft candlelight that added to the mansion’s charm. Everything about this wedding felt intimate and heartfelt, which made my job of capturing it even more meaningful.
Moments That Stood Out
There were so many incredible moments throughout the day, but a few stand out as favorites:
📸 The First Look: The couple shared a private first look on the mansion’s grand staircase, and the emotions were so raw and real. These are the moments I live for—when I can step back and just let love unfold naturally.
📸 Golden Hour Portraits: As the sun started to set, we stepped outside into Wilder Park, where the light was absolutely perfect. The couple laughed, danced, and soaked in the moment—it made for the dreamiest, most romantic portraits.
📸 The Dance Floor Energy: Once the reception started, the energy in the room was electric. Guests filled the dance floor, celebrating with pure joy. I love capturing those candid, unscripted moments—where people forget about the camera and just live in the moment.
What I Learned from My First Solo Wedding
Looking back, this wedding taught me so much—not just about photography, but about myself.
✔️ Trust yourself. It’s easy to doubt your abilities, but the key is to prepare, stay present, and trust in your skills.
✔️ Embrace the nerves. They mean you care. Instead of letting them overwhelm you, use them to fuel your focus and creativity.
✔️ Stay adaptable. Weddings are unpredictable. Lighting changes, timelines shift, and unexpected moments happen—but that’s what makes them so magical.
Grateful for This Experience
Shooting my first big solo wedding at Wilder Mansion was a defining moment in my career. It gave me the confidence to step fully into my role as a wedding photographer, knowing that I could handle the pressure and still create beautiful, meaningful images.
If you’re a couple looking for a photographer who will capture your love story with heart, passion, and a keen eye for those once-in-a-lifetime moments, let’s chat! I’d love to be part of your wedding journey—whether at Wilder Mansion or another stunning venue.
Planning a Wilder Mansion wedding? Let’s make magic together!
